Cousins in hospital

Star Richmond midfielder Ben Cousins will miss the Tigers' final pre-season hit-out this weekend after being hospitalised with stomach pain on Thursday night.

The 2005 Brownlow medallist had been named in the Richmond side to take on Essendon in Morwell on Saturday, but Cousins will now miss the trip east from Melbourne.

"Ben will stay in overnight for observation and will undergo some tests in the morning after he has fasted," said Richmond football manager Craig Cameron.

"Ben's condition does not appear serious but as a precautionary measure we would like some tests done to see what the problem is," Cameron said.

"It is doubtful that Ben will play against Essendon in the NAB Challenge match in Morwell on Saturday," Cameron said.